Consumer Encyclopedia
Puppy scam (Pet scam)
Puppy scam
Related Resources
An advance-fee scheme, this scam usually starts with a puppy or other pet listed in a classified newspaper or online ad. It could also originate as an e-mail solicitation, or spam.
The consumer is asked to send money in advance to cover the cost of the pet, shipping, etc. Often this money is to be sent via wire transfer, money order or other anonymous method. Once the consumer has paid, the pet never arrives.
Checking references is always a good idea, but especially when dealing with an animal breeder. Doing business face-to-face is the best practice with this type of transaction, and always be suspicious of strangers who ask for money to be sent via wire transfers.
See a sample puppy scam email below:
MY NAME IS MRS.DOROTHY S RIFFERTY, MY HUSBAND AND I ARE ON A CHRISTAIN MISSION TO AFRICA AND I CAME ALONG WITH MY PUPPY (YORKIE). AFTER A WHILE I NOTICED THAT THE AFRICAN WEATHER IS NOT GOOD FOR THE PUPPY AND I HAVE NOT BEEN ABLE TO TAKE GOOD CARE OF HER THE WAY I ALWAYS DO BECAUSE OF MY JOB.
I NEED SOMEONE TO ADOPT HER AND TAKE CARE OF HER THE WAY IALWAYS DO.F YOU CAN TAKE CARE OF HER DO SEND A REPLY AND I WILL EMAIL YOU HER PICTURES. I HOPE TO READ FROM YOU.
REGARDS,
DOROTHY S RIFFERTY.
